Close Encounter with Cambodian Wildlife

Encounter the diversity of Cambodian wildlife at one of the best rescue centres in the region, providing a sanctuary for countless threatened species.

What to experience ?

Asian black bear

Situated less than an hour away from the capital of Phnom Penh, the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre is home to over 1,200 animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Set in 2,300 hectares of protected forest, the Centre provides a perfect day excursion from the city and enables visitors to view some of Cambodia’s most spectacular wildlife in a natural forest setting.

As many as 1,000 animals from more 80 species of Cambodian wildlife can be found at the centre. Elephants, tigers, leopards, bears and other large mammals, all rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, are housed in large, naturalised enclosures within the Phnom Tamao Protected Forest.

The centre provides visitors an unparalleled opportunity to view dozens of Southeast Asia’s most endangered and vulnerable animals, including tigers, elephants, sun bears, leopards, and rare monkey species. Home to the world’s largest captive collections of pileated gibbons and Malayan sun bears, as well as other rarities such as Siamese crocodiles a day trip to the Centre is not to be missed.

Cambodia’s wildlife is usually very difficult to spot, as larger mammals inhabit remote and inhospitable areas of the country. Phnom Tamao is the perfect place to discover more about the incredible variety of animals in Cambodia.

How does it help ?

Playful elephants

As the only official government-owned facility for the placement of rescued wildlife within Cambodia, Phnom Tamao plays a pivotal role in the fight against the illegal wildlife trade. Each year, hundreds of animals are rehabilitated here before being re-released into protected areas throughout the country whilst other species are bred for future reintroduction and to create a ‘safety net’ population for their wild counterparts.

With around 400,000 visitors per year, the centre also performs a vital role in helping to educate both local and foreign visitors about the conservation threats facing many of the country’s wild animals. The centre helps shape attitudes towards a more sustainable approach regarding natural resources.

Phnom Tamao is a popular place for school trips from Phnom Penh, which ensures Cambodia’s future generations are educated as to the importance of wildlife protection.

The Centre is supported by a number of international conservation organizations such as Wildlife Alliance, Free the Bears Fund and Care for the Wild.